Learn this list of golf terms so you can become your own swing doctor

Launch monitors are an indispensable tool for getting the most out of your swing. You can’t learn from them, however, if you don’t know what you’re looking at. Below, a dictionary of must-know terms in the modern improvement age.

Ball Speed: The speed the ball travels as it leaves the clubface. The farther away you make contact from the sweet spot, the more ball speed drops.

Angle of Attack: The angle at which the club approaches the ball. Hitting down on the ball (as you should with an iron or a wedge) is negative attack angle. Positive numbers pop up when you correctly hit up on the ball with a driver.

Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor

$399.99

The only launch monitor that uses your mobile device to provide instant feedback on your swing. The Rapsodo MLM analyzes everything from launch data, club and ball speed to club recognition and shot trace visualization, all with instant video replay capability. It uses satellite range mapping technology for pinpoint distance accuracy. The MLM gives you the opportunity to train like the pros, with insightful data that helps you to develop your game with every shot. This device will not be able to give accurate information if you are hitting into a net, only when the ball is able to make a full flight.

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Launch Angle: The angle the ball travels on once it leaves the face, relative to the horizon. It’s one of the most important factors in determining how high and far your shots travel.

Face Angle: The direction your clubface points at impact, relative to the target line. If you’re missing left or right, focus on this parameter first.

Spin Axis: The amount of curve on the ball after you hit it (negative = spinning left). A zero spin-axis reading means the ball won’t curve — but it may still miss with a face angle error.